Dolphins Prefer Patsies To Pats In Season Opener

September 13, 1987|By Brian Schmitz of The Sentinel Staff

Miami Coach Don Shula would much rather start the season in Buffalo or Indianapolis, but those places, unfortunately, already have been booked today. The Dolphins must open with bared teeth in New England against the Patriots, the defending AFC East champions.

At least Shula can be thankful that it's not December. He also can be thankful that quarterback Dan Marino is, according to Shula, throwing the ball with his usual velocity and depth.

Marino saw his first action last Friday since sustaining a dislocated finger on his throwing hand Aug. 16 against Chicago. He completed three of five passes and led the Dolphins to 10 quick first-quarter points against Buffalo.

But Marino's long, downfield arm was not on display. And the sight of several deep tosses wobbling in practice opened questions about his ability to grip the ball and loosen the Pats' run-stingy defense.

''He doesn't even think about it,'' Shula said. ''He doesn't seem to have any kind of discomfort.''

Although the Dolphins looked better defensively during the preseason, injuries throughout the lineup have negated any improvement. Linebackers John Offerdahl and Hugh Green are out, and center Dwight Stephenson and receiver Mark Clayton are hobbling.

Fifth-year pro David Frye makes his third start as a Dolphin for Green at right outside linebacker. Rookie John Bosa will start at right end, earning a job after his play against Buffalo.

Brian Sochia, replacing the retired Bob Baumhower at nose tackle, is the other new face in the lineup since last season when Miami ranked 26th overall in defense.

The Dolphins ranked fourth in the NFL during preseason, surrendering 64 points. But you know how much that means when you learn who led the league (with 46 points) -- San Diego.

The Patriots will try to play ball-control with a rejuvenated running game led by Tony Collins. Steve Grogan starts for injured Tony Eason.

Miami's biggest task may be warding off the blitz if Stephenson (arch) can't play. His status won't be determined until game time.

Marino's play still is the key. Oddly enough, he always has had trouble against the Pats. In eight games he has completed only 51 percent and thrown more interceptions (14) than touchdowns (13).

If Clayton still is bothered by a thigh bruise, second-year receiver James Pruitt will get the call. Shula called Pruitt ''the best player in this training camp.'' Pruitt led the Dolphins with 15 catches for 269 yards and four touchdowns.